“There’s a catch.” Phyllis stood and retrieved the contract from her desk. “She wants us to use a portion of that money to work with children.”

Bette looked over the sheet of paper. It was a reasonable request, and Bette found herself thinking up different projects she could put on.

“I’m sure the faculty can come up with something,” Bette said absentmindedly as she continued reading.

“It’s going to be exciting times ahead,” the blonde observed. “It’s always refreshing to meet people who are passionate about art. The senator certainly is not your ordinary stuffy art collector.”

“Barbara Grisham is a powerful ally.”

Phyllis wisely changed the subject when she knew no more information was forthcoming. “Let’s go out for lunch, I’m starving. We can continue when we get back.”

She gathered the papers, hurrying to her office after promising to meet her boss at her car. Leaving word with James, Bette found Phyllis at the lobby speaking with another faculty member.

“Where do you want to go, Phyllis?” Bette asked as they got into the car.

“Where do you normally go for lunch?”

“The Planet,” Bette answered slowly.

“We’ll go there then,” Phyllis’ reply brokered no argument.

Bette filled the rest of the drive with small talk, sensing her boss was eager to find out the rest of the story about Barbara. She deflected all questions smoothly, knowing it would drive Phyllis crazy.

As they exited the car and neared the Planet’s entrance, Bette spotted a familiar blonde walking out. “Tina.”

“Bette!” the smile that graced Tina’s face was enough to light up a city. She stepped up to the brunette, placing a chaste kiss on Bette’s cheek. “Here for lunch?”

“Absolutely. Tina, this is Phyllis Kroll, my boss,” Bette turned slightly to the other blonde. “Phyllis, this is Tina Kennard.”

“Ex-wife,” Tina supplied, her tone holding no malice. “It’s nice to meet you.”

“Likewise,” Phyllis returned Tina’s handshake. “You both have a very beautiful daughter.”

“We do,” the blonde and Bette shared a proud smile. “Do you have any children, Phyllis?”

“Two, actually. They’re both in college now,” the tall blonde answered. “Sometimes I wish they had stayed as kids. Enjoy the early years while you can.”

Tina chuckled at the advice. “That’s what I keep hearing.”